AEDIT
Try on Ablative Non-Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Solutions
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The Skinny
Average Recovery
18 days
Permanence
Temporary
Application
Laser/Light Therapy
Surgical
No
Cost
$2000 - $2500
The Specifics
What is ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing?
An ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure is the most aggressive form of laser resurfacing. The ablative component uses intense heat to vaporize skin tissue (versus non ablative lasers which do not destroy skin cells), and the non-fractional aspect means the laser treatment is spread across a large treatment area. Ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing treatments stimulate new collagen growth, tighten underlying skin, and remove old, damaged, or hyperpigmented skin cells. The most common Common non-fractional ablative lasers include carbon dioxide (CO2) and erbium.
What cosmetic concerns does an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure treat?
Who is the ideal candidate for an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure?
The ideal candidate for an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing has sun damaged skin, fine lines and wrinkles, skin laxity (especially around the lower eyelids), changes in skin tone or texture, or certain precancerous skin growths. Ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing is not recommended for those with darker skin tones due to the risk of hypopigmentation.
What is the average recovery associated with an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Most patients experience two to three weeks of downtime following an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing. Redness, rawness, swelling, and itchiness are common following these laser resurfacing treatments. Patients can expect the red or pink appearance of the skin to persist for two to three months. Thick, hydrating ointments, proper skin care, and limiting sun exposure can speed recovery time.
What are the potential side effects of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure?
Possible side effects following an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing include burns or other skin damage from the heat of the laser, scarring, hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation, reactivation of cold sores, bacterial infections, and development of milia (white bumps).
What can someone expect from the results of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure?
The results of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing will not be immediately noticeable following the procedure, but rather they will develop over weeks or months as the skin heals and rejuvenates. Taking care to avoid excessive sun exposure and utilizing sunscreen during this time period can mitigate the risk of irregular pigmentation development. The results of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing will be significant, but will also be subject to age related changes and sun damage as time progresses.
What is the average cost of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure?
An ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $2,500. The actual cost of an ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing is dependent upon location, provider, and length and involvement of the cosmetic procedure.
Pros
- Smooths Skin
- Tightens Skin
- Lasting Results
- Improve Skin Quality
- Improve Skin Texture
- More Effective
Cons
- Scarring
- Pigmentation Changes
- Exacerbate Skin Disorders
- More Invasive
- Longer Recovery
Invasiveness Score
What to Expect
Ablative non-fractional skin resurfacing treatments remove layers of skin to reveal a younger and brighter complexion. This is the most aggressive form of laser skin resurfacing. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after non-fractional ablative skin resurfacing.
The Takeaway
An ablative non-fractional laser skin resurfacing procedure can provide dramatic improvements to skin tone, skin texture, and overall appearance. By removing the outer layer of damaged skin cells and promoting new collagen production, ablative non fractional lasers restore, refresh, and rejuvenate the skin.